Folklore and traditions
Pattern days and rounds
Patron-saint days, rounds and stations performed at holy wells and churches. 121 sites across 22 counties.
Illustrative image
Folklore on ErinSites is quoted from the Archaeological Survey of Ireland (or, when marked, from visitors). It records what people said or believed about a place; it is not presented as historical fact.
- Tobermurry Holy well · Derrynalester, Co. Cavan
Patterns are held here annually on August 13th.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Donegal Castle Castle · Donegal, Co. Donegal
The pedestals are carved with cloisonné-like designs and the pilasters have ornate hinge-like strapwork with flower and foliage patterns on the sides.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Our Ladys Well Holy well · Tyrrelstown, Co. Dublin
Formerly a pattern day was held on the 8th of September (Ó Danachair 1958-60, 76; Daly 1957, 19).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Colmcille's Well Holy well · Oldcourt, Co. Dublin
The water is traditionally thought to cure sore eyes, ears and throat.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Srugreana Church Ancient church · Glebe (Iveragh By.), Co. Kerry
Overlooking an extensive tract of bog to W, the site is associated with St Lonan, in whose honour a pattern was formerly held here on the 3rd of March (OSL).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Johns Well - Tobar Eoin Holy well · Cill Mhuire (Tc An Mhín Aird), Co. Kerry
Rounds are made here on the 29th of August and a pattern was formerly held on the same day (Ó Danachair 1960, 76).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobairin Holy Well Holy well · Coomanaspig, Co. Kerry
Rounds were formerly made here on the 29th September as part of the turas or pilgrimage which commenced at the pattern held at St Michael's Well, Dungeagan (KE097-029----), and which also involved visits to St Buonia's Well (KE088-027004-) and St Finan's Well…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobar Bride Holy well · Brallistown Commons, Co. Kildare
According to Jackson (1979-80, 156) 'there was a famous pattern held at this spot over 150 years ago, but the pattern fell into disrepute from want of piety.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Brigid's Well (site of) Holy well · Ballyconra, Co. Kilkenny
When describing Barony church (KK009-013001-) in Ballyconra townland, O'Kelly (1969, 53) mentions, 'St. Brigid's Well at which a pattern was held on the saint's feast day is south of the church'.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St John's Well Holy well · Johnswell, Co. Kilkenny
According to the OS Letters (1839), ‘There is a holy well (the popular Irish name of this well is Achadh, i.e., the Field) in the Townland of Johnswell at which devotees from all parts of the County Kilkenny and some of the neighbouring Counties attended in…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Coolaghmore, Co. Kilkenny
According to O’Kelly (1985, 142), at Coolaghmore there is, ‘a well in the churchyard [KK030-004003-] field called Tobar an chillín, the little church well, where a pattern is held on the first Sunday in September’.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. James's Well Holy well · Mill Island, Co. Kilkenny
O’Kelly (1969, 154) mentions that the pattern day of the well, known as ‘Tobar San Séain’ or ‘St. James’s Well’, was held on the last Sunday in July up until the early years of the twentieth century.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact
- St. Martin's Well Holy well · Templemartin (Gowran By., Clara Ed), Co. Kilkenny
Stations are performed at it on St. Martin's Day, 11th of November' (O'Flanagan 1930, vol. 1, 247 (83)).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Mogue's Well Holy well · Ennisnag, Co. Kilkenny
A pattern was held at the well till the beginning of the 19th century’.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberbride Holy well · Kells, Co. Kilkenny
Stations were performed and a Pattern was held at this well not many years since on St. Bridget's Day, the 1st of February' (O'Flanagan 1930, vol. 2, 62 (20)).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tullaherin Church Ancient church · Tullaherin, Co. Kilkenny
According to the OS Letters (O’Flanagan 1930, vol. 1, 87-8), written in 1839, ‘a pattern was held here not long since on the 5th of March’ in honour of the patron saint.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Brigid's Well Holy well · Rosenallis, Co. Laois
A holy well dedicated to St Bridget whose pattern was formerly held on 1st of February.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Brigid's Well Holy well · Ballintubbert, Co. Laois
No evidence of any votive offerings in the vicinity of the well and no pattern is held at this well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Longory's Well Holy well · Kilgory, Co. Laois
A pattern day was formerly held here on 24th June (Comerford 1886, vol. 3, 197).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Ite's Well Holy well · Killeedy North, Co. Limerick
The following folklore was recorded from Raheenagh National School about St. Ita's Well; 'There is a holy well in the ground where her monastery was built and many people come and pray their on her feast day.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Errigal Truagh old church Ancient church · Mullanacross (Trough By.), Co. Monaghan
The medieval parish church of Errigal Trough was dedicated to St Meallán, an associate of St Fursa, a seventh century county saint from Co. Down, However, little is known of Meallán except that his pattern is recorded as October 26 (Ó Riain 2011, 451-2).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Manchan's Well Holy well · Lemanaghan, Co. Offaly
According to Rev. Monahan (1886, 353) there were three holy wells located at Lemanaghan which held its annual pattern day on January 24th.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Inishmurray Island Early Medieval Ecclesiastical Site Monastic site · Inishmurray, Co. Sligo
It was the focus of an important Early Medieval monastic settlement, traditionally said to have been founded by St. Molaise.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Attracta's Well Holy well · Clogher, Co. Sligo
Upon exiting the subsidiary well the stream flows SE for 3m in an open stone-lined drain and then into the adjoining field to E. The well is traditionally associated with St Attracta and the pattern day is held on 11th August.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Cahir Priory Abbey or friary · Caherabbey Upper, Co. Tipperary
Some of the sandstone windows in the chancel were altered in the 15th century with limestone inserts and an elaborately decorated E and N window were also added at this date, with an interlace pattern on the exterior of the E window.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Berrihert's Kyle Monastic site · Ardane, Co. Tipperary
The saint's pattern day is on the 18th of February and prayers were said at the Kyle and the well (Ó hÉailidhe 1967, 105).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Brigid's Well Holy well · Brideswell Big, Co. Wexford
Described as 'Bride's Well' on the 1839 and 1940 eds of the OS 6-inch map, a pattern was held there until c. 1800, according to John O'Donovan c. 1840 (O'Flanagan 1933, 238).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Coolgreen, Co. Cork
Rounds are made on August 15th and all during May.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Magooly, Co. Cork
Rounds were paid at both wells on three successive Sundays.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Our Lady's Well Holy well · Newtown South, Co. Cork
Local tradition that well moved to here from its original site at Crannavella Tree (14044) c. 1.4km to SW following use of well water for washing.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Poulavare, Co. Cork
The well is described by Reeves (1858, 274) as 'cased inside with blocks of oak, about three feet deep, rudely squared...believed to have been formerly lined with lead.' Photograph taken in 1907 (Grove White 1905-25, vol. 4, 264) shows a low square drystone…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bridget's Wells Holy well · An Chruit Uachtarach, Co. Donegal
Stations are made on the 15th August.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Catherine's Well Holy well · Fieldstown, Co. Dublin
Known locally as a former holy well where an annual pattern was held.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Catherine's Well Holy well · , Co. Dublin
The water was used to cure sore eyes and toothache (Anon. 1928, 159-161; Ó Danachair 1958, 233).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Mary's Well Holy well · Tobertown, Co. Dublin
Folklore collected in 1934 from Balscadden National School recorded the following beliefs about St Mary's Well; 'Situated in centre of very ancient graveyard beside this school.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Cuan's Well Holy well · Castlegar East, Co. Galway
A pattern was held there on the 15th October (St Cuan's feastday) annually and it was said that the water could not be boiled (The Schools’ Collection, Volume 0044, Page 0099-0100. © National Folklore Collection, UCD; accessed at…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Keel Burial Ground and Church Ancient church · Keel (Trughanacmy By.), Co. Kerry
A pattern was formerly held at this church on the eleventh of February, but no saint is remembered at present’ (OSL; O’Donovan 1983, 103-4).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Kilsarkan Church Ancient church · Kilsarkan East, Co. Kerry
These are probably deposited as offerings having been used for rubbings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Moling's Well Holy well · Brosna West, Co. Kerry
The water from the well is said to cure eye complaints.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberbreeda Holy well · An Baile Riabhach, Co. Kerry
"Stations and rounds were performed at it formerly" - OSNB.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobereleesh Holy well · Knoppoge (Clanmaurice By.), Co. Kerry
Marked on the 1840-41 and 1914 OS maps as 'Tobereleesh' (Tobar Eilís - well of Eilís), this well is known locally as Knoppoge well, St Brigid's well and Tobar an Leighis (well of the healing).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobergobnet Holy well · Glebe (Iveragh By.), Co. Kerry
A pattern was formerly held here on the 3rd of March (OSL).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Cinn Aird Thiar (Tc Cinn Aird), Co. Kerry
Small objects are left as offerings; there usually are fresh flowers in small vases or jars.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Gortamullin, Co. Kerry
A pattern is held here on August 15th, the feast day of Our Lady, when a major fair is also held in the town.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Brackagh, Co. Kildare
According to the OSL (Herity 2002, 34), '… there is a well called Lady Well, at which stations were performed on Lady-Day in Harvest', and Jackson (1979-80, 145) says a pattern was held here in August.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tubber-molin Holy well · Kilcullenbridge (Kilcullen Ed), Co. Kildare
According to Fitzgerald (1899-1902, 317) the well, ‘ … [went] by the name of Tubber-molin … or St. Moling’s Well’, while Jackson (1979-80, 151) attributes it to St. Brigid and says a pattern was formerly held there on February 1st.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tubbermohocca Holy well · Kilcock, Co. Kildare
Local tradition recalls a pattern day at the well on the 6th of June (pers. comm. Mr. Michael Durkan).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Holy Trinity Well Holy well · Ballycannon, Co. Kilkenny
However this appears to be contradicted by O'Kelly (1969 (1985 reprint), 4), who notes, 'Holy Trinity well at which a pattern is still held on the second Sunday in July is 400 yards south-east of the church.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Maon's Well Holy well · Tullamaine (Ashbrook), Co. Kilkenny
A pattern was formerly held at the well on January 21st' (ibid. 322).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Dallan's Well Holy well · Burnchurch, Co. Kilkenny
A pattern was held at the well on the first Sunday of August, till the early part of the 19th century, but tradition says that the people attended it were divided as to whether the real pattern day, that is, the feast day of the saint, was the first day of…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Brendan's Well Holy well · Troyswood, Co. Kilkenny
Stations were performed here long ago but they are now neglected' (O'Flanagan (ed.) 1930, vol. 2, 78 (26)).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Dallan's Well Holy well · Burnchurch, Co. Kilkenny
A pattern was held at the well on the first Sunday of August, till the early part of the 19th century, but tradition says that the people attended it were divided as to whether the real pattern day, that is, the feast day of the saint, was the first day of…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Margaret's Well Holy well · Brabstown (Crannagh By.), Co. Kilkenny
A pattern was formerly held there on the 15th of August (Carrigan 1905, vol. 3, 497).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Manman's Well Holy well · Kilmanman, Co. Laois
The date of the pattern day was forgotten by the early nineteenth century (O'Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 71).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Patrick's Well Holy well · Miskaun Glebe, Co. Leitrim
The enclosure is described as a 'fort' on the 1835 edition of the OS 6-inch map and the perimeter is cut by a road bank at NE. There is a modern well, constructed of concrete and still in use, which replaces an earlier circular drystone structure (diam. 1m)…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Killarga, Co. Leitrim
This is a natural well in a rock cleft at the bottom of a low cliff (H 1.8m) which is surrounded by a stone wall, making a small rectangular enclosure (int. dims c. 3.5m x 3.5m) which contains statues and offerings.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Camagh, Co. Leitrim
A pattern was held on February 1st in the 19th century (O'Flanagan 1929, 98).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tober Murray Holy well · Drumoghty More, Co. Leitrim
The name ‘Tober Murray’ on the OS 6-inch maps is properly Tober Mhuire – Mary’s Well (OSNB No. 84, 15), and there was a pattern at this well until c. 1800 (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Barrigone Well Holy well · Craggs, Co. Limerick
Area around well (4.2m x 2.6m) enclosed by concrete wall, with opening to E. Small shrine atop wall immediately W of well and concrete altar short distance to W. According to Ó Danachair (1955, 215) 'a great pattern was held formerly on 14th-15th August, when…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Deborah's Well Holy well · Ballynahinch, Co. Limerick
Westropp (1904-5, 451) recorded that a pattern was held here at ; 'Tober Gobnait, or Deborah's Well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Skagh, Co. Limerick
It is said to possess healing virtues.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Castletown (Connello Upper By.), Co. Limerick
Path is worn around well where rounds are made.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Ballinvana, Co. Limerick
Rounds are still made: the water cures sore eyes.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Rathcahill East, Co. Limerick
According to local tradition parish church of Rathcahill (LI044-133---) was located across the road from the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Fantstown, Co. Limerick
A pattern was held on 15th August up to about 1820.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Ballylanders, Co. Limerick
A pattern is held on 15th August, the largest of its kind in the county, with parades, games and dances in addition to the devotions at the well.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Ballyshanedehey, Co. Limerick
Rounds were made within living memory, but there are no devotions now'.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Mary Magdalene's Well Holy well · Kilbane, Co. Limerick
Rounds still made, especially on the feast day (22nd July).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Ann's Well Holy well · Sunville Upper, Co. Limerick
No devotions now, but rounds were made up to about 1930.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Shangarry, Co. Limerick
According to Ó Danachair (1955, 212) rounds made on 1st February and 'a pattern was held formerly on this day … legend: Saint Brighid converted a pagan chieftan who lived in the fort, and caused a well to spring up for baptism.'
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberbreedia Holy well · Cloonpasteen, Co. Limerick
In mid-1950s 'rounds still made, but not often' (Ó Danachair 1955, 205).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Tobermurry, Co. Limerick
By 1840 rounds were only occasionally made here (OSL vol. 1, 21) and had ceased completely by 1950s (Ó Danachair 1955, 212); rounds were made on the 15th August (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Templeathea West, Co. Limerick
On latter sit numerous cups; rags are tied to surrounding trees.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Dromtrasna North, Co. Limerick
According to Ó Danachair (ibid.) rounds are made 'on the Saturdays of May' and the well dedicated to Our Lady and St Ita; the water was reputed to cure 'sore eyes and other ailments' (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberarraght Holy well · Lurga Lower, Co. Mayo
The well is dedicated to St. Attracta, and the traditional pattern day is on 11th August (OS Letters 1838, 375 (154)).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberfelabride Holy well · Capnagower, Co. Mayo
Westropp (1911a, 25, also 17) notes that although the well is dedicated to the feast of St Bridget, the pattern day was traditionally held on 15 August.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Slanecastle Demesne, Co. Meath
A pattern is still held there on 15th August, the only day when it is generally open to visitors.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tober Lasair Holy well · Aghavilla, Co. Monaghan
It survives as a natural spring surrounded by stones with the foundations of a small structure (dims c. 1m square) immediately to the W. St. Lasair was a female saint about whom little is known but whose pattern was held on 18th of April (Ó Riain 2011, 392).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Rathlihen, Co. Offaly
Well is dedicated to the Blessed Virgin and the annual pattern day is held on the 8th of September (Shaw Rev. 1971, 71-2).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Saint Saran's Well Holy well · Moystown Demesne, Co. Offaly
In 1942 it was recorded that the feastday of St Saran was not remembered locally, although there was a pattern held at Tisaran until the early years of the last century (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Kieran's Well Holy well · Clonmore (Ballybrit By.), Co. Offaly
One of the stations on the pattern held on St Kieran's day.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tisaran Church Ancient church · Moystown Demesne, Co. Offaly
In 1942 it was recorded that the feastday of St Saran was not remembered locally, although there was a pattern held at Tisaran until the early years of the last century (ibid.).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Bride's Well Holy well · Brideswell, Co. Roscommon
O'Donovan writing in the 1830s a pattern was held on 31st July (O'Flanagan 1931; 29-30), rises as a spring outside the WNW angle of a chapel or bath-house (RO048-108002-).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tober Mary Holy well · Kilmacroy, Co. Roscommon
A well where the pattern was held between 15th Aug. and 8th Sep. was venerated in the 19th century (O'Flanagan 1928, 238; D'Alton 1845, 84), but it is no longer visible.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobermurry Holy well · Cloonboyoge, Co. Roscommon
This is an oval well (dims 1.7m N-S; 1.2m E-W) retained by drystone walling (max. H 1.2m) with a stream flowing off to the S. It is still venerated, and a pattern is held between Aug. 15th and Sep. 8th.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobernagreaghta Holy well · Ballinaboy, Co. Roscommon
Patterns were held at night between Aug. 15th and Sep. 9th.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Brigid's Well Holy well · Dromard, Co. Sligo
Patterns are still held here annually on June 29th.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberbride Holy well · Toberbride, Co. Sligo
In 1836 it was recorded that the 'patron day' of the parish is 1st of February, St Brigid's Day (OSL, 375).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Mullauns, Co. Tipperary
The holy well was the focus of a pattern on the feast of the Assumption on 15th August, the men visiting the well in the morning and the women in the evening.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Nicholas' Well Holy well · Moorstown (Mora Par.), Co. Tipperary
According to the OSL (O'Flanagan 1930, vol. 3, 83 (251)) stations were performed at the well on Good Friday.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Knockgarraun (Sergeant), Co. Waterford
Patterns were formerly held here on August 15th.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Our Lady's Well Holy well · Cappoquin Demesne, Co. Waterford
This is a stone-lined depression open to the S. A pattern was held on the 8th of September, but it had been discontinued before the end of the 19th century (Redmond 1885-6a, 401-02).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Declan's Well Holy well · Monalummery, Co. Waterford
Traditionally, it is thought to cure skin disorders, particularly ringworm.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Toberaphoona Holy well · Kilgobnet, Co. Waterford
A pattern was held at the well on February 11th (Power 1937, 187).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Tobernamnarialta Holy well · Ballylane, Co. Waterford
Situated towards the head of a flat-bottomed N-S valley, with an E-W stream c. 40m to the S. This is a natural spring, now overgrown, where a pattern was formerly held on August 15th, according to J.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Brigid's Well Holy well · Ballynacarrow (Moygoish By.), Co. Westmeath
The local folklore in the Schools' Collection (1937-1939) recorded that the 'local patron saint of this parish is Saint Mathew.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Ballingly, Co. Wexford
It is mentioned by John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 but it had long been abandoned and the date of the Pattern day was not even remembered (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 215).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Coolstuff, Co. Wexford
It is situated on an E and NE-facing slope with the headwaters of a SW-NE stream c. 80m to the SE. According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on the 15th August, the Feast of the Assumption, every year (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 363).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady's Well Holy well · Eardownes Great, Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 it was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin and was part of the pilgrimage (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 299), and according to Mac Leighim (1920, 133-4), quoting an elderly resident, the pattern was held on the feast of the…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Anne's Well Holy well · Killann, Co. Wexford
Located on a gentle S-facing slppe in the foothills of the Blackstairs Mountains with a N-S stream c. 35m to the W. According to John O'Donovan writing c. 1840 a pattern was performed at the well on 26th July until c. 1824 (O'Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 102).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Anne's Well Holy well · Tomhaggard, Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was kept on the 26th of July (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 200) and it is still held on that date.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Catherine's Well Holy well · Allenstown Big, Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 it was no longer visited at that time and he does not provide a pattern day (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 303).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Catherine's Well Holy well · Churchtown (Forth By., Tacumshin Ed), Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was celebrated on 21 October, which is not associated with any particular saint, but the pattern was not being observed even then (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 268).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Cavan's Well Holy well · Kilcavan (Retrenched), Co. Wexford
The well is dedicated to Saint Caomhán Santleathan of Ardcavan (WX038-006001-), and according to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on June 12th, the saint’s feastday (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 87).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Davids Well (site of) Holy well · Ballynaslaney, Co. Wexford
The pattern was revived in 1910 when some remarkable cures were recorded and it is still held on the 1st February.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Fintan's Well Holy well · Churchlands, Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on the 17th February.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Helen's Well Holy well · Houseland, Co. Wexford
Her feast day is celebrated on August 18 (Butler 1883, 117), but there is no record of a pattern at this site.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Man's Well Holy well · Ballyboy (Forth By.), Co. Wexford
It is probably named after St. Munna of Taghmon (WX040-008003-), whose feastday falls on 21 October (Ó Riain 2011, 505-07), but there is no record of a pattern at this well (OSFM 1940).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Ryland Lower, Co. Wexford
St Mary's Well, an oval drystone-walled structure (dims 2.4m E-W; 1.9m N-S) at which the pattern was held on the 22nd day of July until c. 1810 according to J.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Mary's Well Holy well · Kilmallock, Co. Wexford
It is located on a gentle SW-facing slope with the NW-SE River Sow c. 150m to the SW. According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on the 15th August (O'Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 356), but the well is no longer visible at ground level in…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Moling's Well Holy well · Glebe (Ballaghkeen By., Monamolin Ed), Co. Wexford
This is a U-shaped well (dims. 1.25m E-W; 0.8m N-S) defined by a drystone wall and open to the E. It is roofed with lintels, and the pattern was held on the 17th of June according to John O'Donovan writing c. 1840 (O'Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 226) but there is…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St Vauk's Well Holy well · St. Vogue'S, Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on January 20 (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 297), which is the feast day of St. Féichín, one of the most mythologised of the Irish saints (Ó Riain 2011, 309-11) but the likely patron of the church…
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Killisk, Co. Wexford
John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 records the name but says it had been disused for 20 years and the pattern was not remembered (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 222).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Bridget's Well Holy well · Castletalbot, Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on the 1st February until c. 1830 (O'Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 90-1).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Helen's Well Holy well · Killiane, Co. Wexford
John O’Donovan, writing c. 1840 says that the pattern was abolished c. 1810, and even the date was not remembered.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Keevil's Well Holy well · Ballybrennan Little, Co. Wexford
John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 says that the pattern was held on 27 August (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 281).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Mannan’s Well Holy well · Woodtown (Bargy By.), Co. Wexford
She was reputedly baptised by St. Patrick, and founded a nunnery at Faughart, Co. Louth (LH004-097001-), the reputed birthplace of St. Bridget (Gwynn and Hadcock 1970, 384).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Michael's Well Holy well · Bush (Forth By., Rosslare Ed), Co. Wexford
According to John O’Donovan writing c. 1840 the pattern was held on 29 September until it was suppressed c. 1830 (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 1, 278-9).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - St. Mochoaun's Well Holy well · Longridge, Co. Wexford
Cuan’s feastday was on the 10th July but, although the well is mentioned by John O’Donovan writing c. 1840, a pattern is not recorded (O’Flanagan 1933, vol. 2, 77).
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact - Lady Well Holy well · Kilmurry North (Arklow By.), Co. Wicklow
According to the OS Letters (O'Flanagan 1928, 128) patterns were held here until the beginning of the 19th century.
As recorded by the Archaeological Survey · a tradition, not a fact
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